By Our Correspondent

The Nigerian Army has mourned soldiers killed during fierce terrorist attacks in Borno and Katsina states, describing the fallen personnel as brave officers who paid the ultimate price while defending the country.

The attacks reportedly claimed the lives of several troops, including a Lieutenant Colonel and a Captain, during intense military operations against terrorists in the North-East and North-West regions.

Military sources revealed that the slain Lieutenant Colonel served as the commanding officer of a battalion operating in Borno State, where terrorists recently launched multiple coordinated assaults on military formations.

The attacks occurred in several locations including Konduga, Marte, Jakana and Mainok, where troops engaged insurgents in heavy gun battles.

Despite the casualties, soldiers reportedly killed more than 45 terrorists during the operations, preventing the attackers from overrunning military bases.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, confirmed the development, noting that the attacks took place between late Thursday night and early Friday morning.

According to him, the soldiers fought bravely while defending their positions.

He stated that the fallen personnel demonstrated courage, loyalty and dedication to duty, adding that their sacrifices would never be forgotten by the Nigerian Army and the nation.

The Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the incident as a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces.

He said the soldiers fought with exceptional bravery and upheld the highest traditions of the Nigerian Army, noting that their sacrifices helped protect communities and maintain national security.

Meanwhile, in Katsina State, Captain Paul Hassan and two other soldiers were killed during a fierce encounter with bandits in Danmusa Local Government Area.

The Katsina State Government confirmed that troops killed at least 45 bandits during the operation, including Iti, the nephew and second-in-command to notorious bandit leader Adamu Alieru, as well as another top bandit known as Damale.

Officials said the clash followed intelligence reports that armed bandits from Zamfara State were planning cattle rustling attacks in Musawa Local Government Area.

Authorities have praised the soldiers for their bravery and assured that efforts to eliminate terrorists and bandits across the region will continue.